ALLEN PARK -- Mikel Leshoure has received a somewhat surprising number of first-team reps with the Detroit Lions in training camp. He's listed third on the depth chart.

And it appears he'll play quite a bit Saturday night when Detroit opens the preseason with a game against the Cleveland Browns (7:30 p.m., WXYZ-TV in Detroit).

But Leshoure likely won't be a significant contributor once the season begins, with Reggie Bush and Joique Bell entrenched atop the depth chart. Theo Riddick almost certainly will be the No. 3, with his growing role in the passing game and contributions on special teams.

So the question becomes, why play Leshoure so much in the preseason?

Conspiracy theorists will say the Lions are shopping Leshoure, in hopes of fortifying a position of less depth. And Leshoure didn't exactly dispute that notion, nor did he confirm it.

The dude just wants to play.

"I'm not sure what's going on with that (trade talk)," Leshoure said. "I don't know. I just come to work man. That's it."

Leshoure has come to work every day during camp. And now, for the first time since last preseason, he'll even get some work during a game.

"I just want to play solid, man," he said. "No mental mistakes. Just run hard and just let my play take over. Not be out there thinking, and just go play. It's going to feel good to be back out there."

Leshoure, a former second-round pick, has slid down the depth chart since leading Detroit in rushing in 2012. He was active just twice last year, and carried the ball just two times for 9 yards.

Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi comes from a Saints scheme that is known for using a fleet of tailbacks, and he's prepped Leshoure as though he'll be part of the fold this year.

Leshoure has received consistent reps throughout the offsesaon, and many first-team reps in training camp. And Leshoure is grateful for the opportunities to showcase his game.

"I'm just taking advantages of opportunities, man," he said. "Whatever I get, whatever they ask me to do, I'm going to do.

"It's been different since even OTAs. I been gettin' more of a chance, and that hasn't changed since the new coaches have been here. I've just been able to get more of a role. They feel like I can have something to help the offense. They feel like I can bring something, and they can use me, rather than just have me on the roster."